Ossining High School's O-Bots Win Optimum Innovator Inclusion Award

Ossining High School's O-Bots Team has been named the Winner of the Inclusion Award in the 2023 Optimum Innovator Awards, a distinguished accolade recognizing their outstanding commitment to inclusivity and community outreach within the realm of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

Part of the school’s Engineering and Robotics program, the O-Bots have demonstrated remarkable dedication to promoting STEM education and fostering inclusivity.

Each year, the team participates in the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC), which challenges high school students to design and construct industrial-sized robots to compete in demanding field games while simultaneously promoting STEM engagement within their local communities.

Altice USA, a company with a strong commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators, partners with FIRST and spearheads the Optimum Innovator Awards. Altice USA's support includes sponsorships for more than 55 high school teams, regional event sponsorship, and an award-based grant program designed to recognize outstanding achievements among participating teams.

The Inclusion Award, a coveted accolade in the Optimum Innovator Awards program, is bestowed upon teams that go above and beyond in promoting inclusivity, connecting with others, and embracing diversity within their community.

Over the past several years, the O-Bots have made their team accessible to minority students, particularly English Language Learners (ELL). They have translated all their training materials into Spanish, ensuring language barriers do not impede students' participation. Additionally, the team has collaborated with a local nonprofit organization to introduce special-needs students to the exciting world of STEM.

The team’s efforts reflect a deep-seated belief that STEM is a universal language, and every individual deserves equal opportunities to develop their skills in STEM fields.

In recognition of their exceptional accomplishments, the O-Bots received a $2,000 grant, a banner, and a jumbo check presented by George Latimer, Westchester County Executive and Frank Alleva, representing Optimum Government Affairs.

Mr. Latimer took the opportunity to offer his congratulations to the Ossining O-Bots, emphasizing the significance of their work in the community. Mr. Latimer engaged with students, who passionately shared their experiences and insights about the Ossining Engineering club and their journey in building robots.

“Congratulations to the O-Bots for their well-deserved recognition. Their dedication to breaking down barriers in STEM education is an inspiration to us all. They remind us that when we come together and embrace diversity, we can achieve extraordinary things,” Mr. Latimer remarked.

Doug Albrecht, the Ossining Engineering Teacher and Robotics Team Advisor, underscored the importance of the event.

"We were honored to have the County Executive visit us today. The tremendous support we've received, particularly from Optimum over the past couple of years, has been invaluable,” said Mr. Albright.

“Our primary mission is to raise awareness about the vast opportunities available for young students in STEM. Mr. Latimer’s endorsement of these opportunities, including internships and business connections in Westchester, is truly fantastic,” he continued.

Mr. Albright emphasized that the O-Bots have established a precedent that will undeniably shape the thinking of forthcoming generations of visionaries and trailblazers, and how the team illustrates the extraordinary potential that can be unlocked through inclusivity and collaboration within the realm of STEM education.